Or Lamishpachot

Or Lamishpachot is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the families of fallen IDF soldiers and helping bereaved parents navigate the long and deeply personal journey toward rebuilding active, meaningful, and fulfilling lives.

Founded in 2008, the Association seeks to strengthen bereaved parents, lift their spirits, nurture hope and optimism, and encourage them to find renewed purpose and choose life.

The Association was founded by Lt. Col. (res.) Irit Oren Gunders, who serves as its Chairperson and CEO entirely on a voluntary basis. Irit has devoted herself tirelessly to developing and expanding Or Lamishpachot, regarding the organization and the families it supports as her life’s mission.

The loss of a child leaves an immeasurable void. Bereavement is not a moment in time, but an ongoing journey that can profoundly affect every aspect of personal, family, and social life. Or Lamishpachot believes that an important part of this journey is reconnecting with life, with community, and with others who share a similar experience.

For this reason, the Association provides a broad and diverse range of activities created specifically for bereaved families. These programs offer a safe and supportive environment in which parents can connect with one another, participate in enriching and empowering experiences, rediscover moments of joy, and gradually regain strength and hope for the future.

Today, more than 2,700 bereaved families from across Israel are part of the Or Lamishpachot community, with the number continuing to grow each year. The Association makes every effort to reach families of fallen soldiers throughout the country, both those who have lived with bereavement for many years and those whose loss is tragically recent.

Irit maintains a deeply personal connection with the families and knows many of their individual stories. This personal involvement, together with her extraordinary commitment and sense of responsibility, has created a unique community built on trust, compassion, connection, and mutual strength.

Or Lamishpachot's groundbreaking contribution to bereaved families and Israeli society has received significant national and public recognition. The Association and its founder have been honored with the Israel Prize for Lifetime Achievement in 2026, the President of Israel’s Volunteer Award in 2013, the Sderot Conference Award for Social Excellence in 2018, and the Paul Harris Fellow recognition for outstanding contribution to the community and society in 2019.

At the heart of Or Lamishpachot is a simple yet powerful belief: even after unimaginable loss, it is possible to draw strength from one another, rediscover hope, and choose life.